Nancy Taylor Tate
The night air was cold, and the wind was blowing. It was twenty-seven degrees outside, but it felt much colder. Yet, we were there expectantly, crowded together on the sidewalk as we enjoyed cookies and sipped on hot chocolate to stay warm.
The moment we were all waiting for came! Together, we lifted our voices in joyous celebration as we sang the famous Christmas song, Joy to the World.
We then did a countdown and watched as our town Christmas tree lit up the night. Everyone cheered! Though it was cold outside, there was a sense of warmth as we stood there together— children playing, people talking, some just watching. A festive feeling was in the air! Joy and goodwill flooded our hearts. We were glad we came!
Joy to the world! The good news of the gospel! In the sovereignty of God’s plan, Jesus came, bringing salvation to all. He is coming again! How wonderful when we can share this good news with others. What joy, hope, and love it births in our hearts!
“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10–11).
This is good news for ALL of mankind!
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved” (John 3:16–17).
God so loved the world! Revelation 5:9–12 speaks of a people redeemed by His blood out of every kindred, tongue, people, and nation. This is the Lord’s desire today! That none would perish, but all would receive forgiveness of sin and everlasting life through the Lord Jesus Christ.
Today, we are blessed to be carriers of this good news—good news that is for every nation, land, and people. There is a Saviour! One who loves us! He gave Himself for us that we might have forgiveness of sin. Through faith we can receive His gift of eternal life.
There is a blessing on those who carry this good news of the gospel to others:
“How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” (Romans 10:15b)
I am thankful to be one whose faith and trust is rooted in the Lord Jesus Christ. May we pray that others, regardless of nationality, race, or background, might also have a revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ and His love for them.
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14).
Jesus! Savior of the world…of every kindred, tongue, people, and nation! My Savior and my Lord. He brought the gift of His love to you and me, that together we might live and walk in right relationship with God and with others. His love has filled our hearts and changed our lives. Because of Jesus, we can rejoice and celebrate together as we believe for others to join in.
“Believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls” (1 Peter 1:8b–9).